Emergency Dentistry

The London Clinic has compiled a First Aid Guide for dental emergencies that provides a quick reference in the unfortunate event of a dental emergency. The Guide is intended to provide general information about next steps:

Toothache

A toothache can be caused by many and varied reasons and generally can only be fixed by visiting the dentist. Toothache symptoms can range from mild discomfort when eating and drinking through to severe discomfort and aching in and around the affected area. For temporary relief of toothache over the counter anti-inflammatory painkillers can reduce discomfort, but you should always follow dosage instructions on the packet. Always consult your pharmacist for advice on drug interactions and allergies.

Chipped Tooth

If you chip your tooth please make sure you come in for an examination as soon as possible through one of our guaranteed same-day appointments. A chipped tooth can become infected if left exposed over a period of time and cause permanent damage and discolouration to the tooth. Chipped teeth can be very sensitive to moving air and cold, so it’s best to avoid cold drinks and food to minimise discomfort.

Lost Filling

Losing a filling can be as a result of the filling failing; a broken tooth; or further decay that may be prone to additional problems. Dental treatment should be sought as soon as possible to prevent a toothache from developing. The London Clinic will ensure patients who lose a filling are seen as soon as possible. In the interim, you should avoid eating on the side of the mouth where the filling has fallen out. Taking your regular over the counter pain killers and avoiding cold substances will minimise symptoms until your appointment.

Tooth Knocked Out

If a tooth is knocked out, call The London Clinic for an immediate emergency dental appointment. If you have the tooth place it in a secure container filled with milk and apply ice to the injury in the mouth. If you don’t have milk at hand, place the tooth in a container to keep it as clean as possible until you see the dentist. Please remember to bring the tooth to your emergency appointment.

Bitten Lip or Tongue

If you have an injury where your teeth have cut through your lip or tongue, try to stem the bleeding by applying ice and pressure. If the cut is small and shallow, keep the area as clean as possible and it will generally heal of its own accord. If the wound is significant and the bleeding does not stop call The London Clinic or visit your local hospital’s emergency department as the wound may require suturing. If you have any doubt about how to care for the wound or you are unsure if the wound requires further treatment call The London Clinic or visit a hospital emergency department.

Broken Jaw

If you have, or suspect you have, a broken jaw you should seek immediate treatment from the nearest hospital’s emergency department Fiona Stanley Hospital (south Perth region) or Royal Perth Hospital (CBD region and north Perth region) both have Maxillofacial units.

A broken jaw is a serious injury and may need to undergo surgery with a Maxillofacial Surgeon. For advice in this situation, our emergency dentist at The London Clinic will accept calls.

For emergency appointments call The London Clinic on 1300 123 TLC (852)

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General dental services are designed to keep things as healthy as possible and nip larger issues in the bud before they get worse.